US: Toyota to boost satellite radio availability

Toyota will "significantly" increase the availability of SiriusXM satellite radio across its US vehicle range during 2013.

Satellite radio will now be standard with most of the automaker's multimedia systems. For some models this will be the first time SiriusXM is standard with all trim levels. It will also be standard on all vehicles equipped with the popular, new 'Entune' system.

Steve Cook, a senior SiriusXM executive said: "Satellite radio is easy to use and according to a national survey it is a top feature for customers buying vehicles with new multi-media systems."

Toyota Motor Sales, USA has offered satellite radio since 2004.

Originally, US new car buyers were offered competing 'Sirius' and 'XM' brands but these have since merged in much the same way as competing satellite TV services in the UK over the last couple of decades.

Toyota provides customers purchasing new vehicles a factory-equipped satellite radio with three-month SiriusXM subscription for services like commercial-free music, premier sports talk and live events, comedy, news, and exclusive talk and entertainment.

Some indication of satellite radio's popularity in the US comes from its inclusion in some basic, rental fleet models while items like power windows, locks and mirrors remain cost options.

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